Right now at the Tokyo National Museum they have an exhibition of Mikkyo art and assorted items including some of Kukai's possessions. They have the vajra and bell he received from his teacher Huiguo. I took some covert photos (Japanese museums are generally intolerant of even non-flash photography as they probably want you to buy the photo book on sale in the gift shop).

Assuming these were manufactured sometime around when they were bestowed upon Kukai, they'd be from the early 9th century. Unless someone knows otherwise, I assume they are of Chinese make.

Amazing to see these up close. I stood there a good fifteen minutes looking them over and just imagining where they came from.

rory wrote:I understand, I'm enjoying your blog as well. Are many people interested in Mikkyo in Japan, that so many are crowding the exhibit? gasshoRory

I think the exhibit is popular due to the extensive advertising. There are huge signs for it in train stations.

I noticed it was mostly older folks visiting and reckon the majority of them are retired. Mind you, that was on a weekday afternoon. There might be a few more youth on weekends, but probably not so much more.

I don't think most visitors would ever think to take up practising or even studying Mikkyo. It is part of Japan's cultural heritage and the artwork is just downright cool. The sculptures on exhibit in particular are fine works of art and their exotic mysterious quality intrigue people.